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COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT 



RELIGIOUS POEMS 




REUBEN T. MARTIN 



RELIGIOUS POEMS 



AND 



HUMOROUS VERSE 



By 

REUBEN T. MARTIN 



THESE POEMS MAY BE SUNG 
TO SOME FAMILIAR TUNE 



The Author and John M. Gibson, Proprietors 



PRICE 

Cloth bound, 50 cents 
Paper bound, 25 cents 



NlXON-JONES PRINTING COMPANY 

215 Pine Street 

ST. LOUIS 






Copyright 1915 
By REUBEN T. MARTIN 

All Rights Reserved 



rtB -3 1915 






DEDICATION. 

Go, little poems, far and near, 

To lonely hearts may you give cheer. 

Be ever this our humble prayer, 

That they may bless a soul somewhere. 

From earth, I soon will pass away, 
But may my verses with you stay. 
And may they cheer your pathway here 
Until you meet your Savior, dear. 

Composing these gave me much joy ; 
I hope they may not you annoy; 
But, thank the Lord, He gave me grace 
That I might fill this humble place. 

In these, my poems, you will find 
Expressions of my heart and mind; 
And may their gentle influ'nee win 
A soul for Christ, a soul from sin. 

The Author. 



(5) 



RELIGIOUS POEMS 



I had read Miss Fanny J. Crosby's first hymn. I won- 
dered if I could compose one myself, though I had never 
tried to do so; so before retiring to rest on the evening 
of April 17, 1911, I took my pencil and wrote one stanza. 
I awoke during the night and composed two stanzas. I 
finished my first poem on the next morning. Below I give 
it as corrected by Miss Fanny J. Crosby, the greatest 
hymn writer on earth. 

8s and 7s. 

We are goiug, we are going, 
"We shall soon be over there, 

Where we'll sing in heaven forever, 
With the angels bright and fair. 

We are going, we are going. 

Where there 's joy and not a sigh ; 

We shall rest from all our labors, 
In that home beyond the sky. 

We shall see dear Fanny Crosby 
With her crown of many stars 

And the souls she brought to Jesus, 
In that home where nothing mars. 

She will meet the precious loved ones, 
Made so happy by her song; 

how they will sing together. 
With the mighty angel throng. 

We are going, we are going. 

Where there 's joy and not a sigh ; 

We shall sing with Fanny Crosby 
In the joyful by and by. 

(7) 



O RELIGIOUS POEMS. 

Respectfully Dedicated to the Sunday School and B. Y. 
P. U. of Laclede Mission, owned by the Third Baptist 
Church. I was in attendance Sunday afternoon, April 19, 
1914. Composed in forty-five minutes after my return 
from the Third Baptist Church services, the same evening. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

In April, on the nineteenth day, 
My Brother Gibson then did say, 
"Come go with me to Mission School, 
To profit all, is there the rule." 

Then South we went, we trudged along. 
Our hearts were light and full of song, 
And soon we reached our journey's end, 
And joy was there, you may depend. 

Congenial persons there I met, 
That happy hour, I'll ne'er forget. 
The leaders were all filled with life. 
In peace with God, there was no strife. 

The pupils were attentive, too. 
'Twas joy, their faces there to view. 
They answered quickly, questions asked. 
As though to them it was no task. 

Dear Fanny Crosby's songs they sang. 
Melodious voices sweetly rang. 
They sang of Jesus and His love, 
Of Heavenly Father, up above. 

If hearts you'd have o'erflow with joy. 
With peace, and nothing to annoy. 
Attend this Mission on Laclede, 
And there you'll find just wliat you need. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. >i 

June 8, 1913. Joseph Forgives His Brethren. Gen. 45: 
1-15. 7s. 

Ev'ry one depart from me. 
Brethren you alone I'll see. 
Joseph then himself makes known; 
Yes, despite unkindness shown. 

Joseph weeps so loud that day, 
Sounds within the walls don 't stay. 
Standing on the outside nigh, 
The Egyptians hear the cry. 

Brethren, now come near to me, 
I am Joseph, now you see. 
Is my father yet alive ; 
Is he well, and does he thrive ? 

Be not grieved, nor angry be. 
That you did not set me free. 
God did send me on before, 
That the king I might implore. 

That he might give you the best 
Of this country, God has blest. 
It is God, who sent me here. 
To preserve your lives so dear. 

Haste, go up to father, dear; 
Tell him I am ruler here ; 
Tell him haste, come down to me, 
For his face I long to see. 

Golden Text. 
Dwell in unity, so dear, 
While on earth, you journey here. 
It is pleasant, it is good. 
Long ago, we understood. 



10 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



Oct. 19, 1913. The Report of the Spies. Numbers 13: 
1-3, 25-33. Long Meter. 

God promised that with them He'd go; 
But whether safe, they'd search and Imow. 
Those forty days of uiibelief 
Brought forty years of care and grief. 

Chorus. 

If God is for you, all is well. 
Fear not to go where giants dwell. 
Your enemies can not prevail, 
For God will never let you fail. 

Jehovah spake to Moses then, 
Requesting him to send twelve men 
To search the land of Canaan fair, 
Which flowed with milk and honey there. 

Chorus. 

They searched the land from East to West, 
From North to South, and all the rest. 
They brought of fruit they there did find, 
Which of its richness did remind. 

Chorus. 

When all those spies had then come back, 
We see that ten did courage lack; 
But Caleb said to people there, 
*'We can at once, take Canaan fair." 

Chorus. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 11 



Jan. 4, 1914. Jesus and the Children. Mark 9:30-41; 
10:13-16. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
Long Meter. 

Then Jesus wished that no one know, 
As on through Galilee they go, 
Disciples only, now He'd teach. 
And to the multitude not preach. 

He'd have them understand how men 
Would take, and crucify Him then. 
Disciples could not understand; 
A worldly kingdom they had planned. 

''What were you arguing in the way?" 
The Master now would have them say. 
''Who was the greatest," they'd discussed; 
For high position, each did lust. 

Then Jesus, in their midst sets child ; 
So meek and lovely, ! so mild, 
And teaches them to childlike be : 
Not jealous, but from sin set free. 

If humble be your place in life, 
Do best you can, amid the strife. 
If others do good in God's name. 
Do not rebuke them for the same. 



12 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



Jan. 11, 1914. The Mission of the Seventy. Luke 10: 
1-24. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
Long Meter. 

The Lord appointed seventy more, 
And sent them two and two before. 
To many places they must go, 
He'd follow soon, He let them know. 

To us He gives the same command. 
Before to go. He doth demand. 
How pleasant to us now to-day. 
To think that Jesus comes our way. 

The harvest truly 's very great. 
The lab'rers few, we must relate. 
Pray that the Lord more workers send, 
Of those on whom He can depend. 

Let's work for Jesus, mind and heart, 
From us he then will ne 'er depart, 
And in the future bye and bye 
He'll take us to His home on high. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 13 



Jan. 18, 1914. The Good Samaritan. Luke 10:25-37. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
Long Meter. 

Eternal life we cannot buy; 
For 'tis free gift from God ou high. 
Let's not depend on works we do, 
But trust the Lord, His way pursue. 

Now testing Jesus, lawyer tries, 
While Savior gives him quite surprise. 
The law he'd read, and taught it, too. 
But all law taught he could not do. 

None ever yet have kept the law ; 
Though doing best, there was a flaw. 
Though very sinful and depraved. 
Through faith in Jesus Christ we're saved. 

Do we pass by on other side. 
And from our view, the needy hide? 
0! let us help our fellow man, 
And do him all the good we can. 



14 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



Jan. 25, 1914. Serving Jesus. Luke 8:1-3; 9:57-62; 10: 
38-42. 

Long Meter. 

To villages and cities too, 
There Jesus preached the gospel true. 
Sometimes we think we'd love to hear, 
As those of old, that voice so dear. 

While on His journey He was bent. 
The twelve were with Him as He went ; 
And faithful women, whom He 'd healed. 
Did of their substance freely yield. 

Good women then were in the crowd; 
Of such you know we 're always proud. 
how they help us on our way, 
And cheer us on from day to day. 

As they were going in the way, 
To Him a certain scribe did say, 
"Where e'er Thou go'st I'll follow Thee"; 
But hardships Master made him see. 

If we would follow Jesus here, 
We must forsake much that is dear. 
And learn of Him, down at His feet. 
And trials thus prepare to meet. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 15 



Feb. 1, 1914. The Unfriendly Neighbor. Luke 11:1-13. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Long Meter. 

Disciples heard the Master pray. 
One said to Him, "Teach us the way." 
As John of old, disciples taught. 
Teach us to pray now as we ought. 

He taught them there a simple prayer. 
That they might pray, just anywhere. 
! Father, help us now to pray. 
That we from Thee, go not astray. 

'Tis taught in lesson of to-day, 
And plainly, too, that when we pray, 
And do not get just what we ask. 
We must at once renew the task. 

More prayerful make us ev'ry day, 
! Father, as on earth we stay ; 
And when our tasks are finished here. 
In glory may we then appear. 



16 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



Feb. 8, 1914. Darkness and Light'. Luke 11:14-26, 33-36. 
Trochaic Trimeter Verse, with the Accented half-foot. 

7s Meter. 

When the demon had gone out, 
Fancy how the dumb did shout. 
Many present wondered much, 
At the casting out of such. 
How 'twas done, they tried to tell ; 
On that subject they would dwell. 
Jesus then their souls would heal. 
But their hearts, they would not yield. 

Sign from heaven, then they sought. 
Jesus knew their very thought. 
'Gainst itself, if kingdom be. 
Desolation you will see. 
Hear this warning, great and small, 
'' 'House divided, sure will fall." 
Be united, work for God. 
Demons flee before His rod. 

No one having lighted lamp. 
Puts it in the cellar, damp ; 
But on lamp-stand places it. 
Where it doth its light emit. 
Lamp of body, is thine eye : 
Keep it right with God on high. 
If whole body then be light, 
All is well in God's own sight. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. lY 



Feb. 15, 1914. Christ's Hatred of Shams. Luke 11: 
37-54. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
Long Meter. 

And as He spake, a Pharisee 

Then said, ' ' Come breakfast Thou with me. ' ' 

With Pharisee He then did eat, 

And others too, He there did meet. 

The Pharisee then wondered much 
That Jesus washed not after touch 
Of man with demon, in the last 
Week's lesson, which has now just passed. 

Then Jesus would have them all know 
They should not do things just for show ; 
But let the blessed Savior in 
That He might cleanse them from all sin. 

Now Jesus Christ, that lovely Lamb, 
Is sure a hater of a sham. 
0! make us pure, from sin set free, 
That we may live, ! Lord, with Thee. 



18 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 

Feb. 22, 1914. Faith Destroying Fear. Luke 12:1-12. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
Long Meter. 

A multitude was gathered there, 
Until there was no room to spare. 
"Of leaven of the Pharisee, 
Partake not," was the Master's plea. 

There 's nothing covered from God 's sight. 
Both good and bad must come to light. 
Whatever ye say in the dark. 
Is heard where shines the brilliant spark. 

Words spoken by you on inside. 
Will be proclaimed both far and wide. 
Fear not the ones who body kill 
But those who punish when they will. 

Remember, Christians, great and small. 
That you should never doubt at all. 
But ever trust in Sou of God, 
And walk in paths by fathers trod. 

The hairs of head are numbered, all. 
Forgets He not the sparrow's fall. 
How pleasant for us then to know, 
God cares for us where'er we go. 

Then when before the rulers tried. 
Not anxious be, in Him confide, 
For Holy Spirit teaches you 
The very thing, ye ought to do. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 19 



March 1, 1914. Trusting in Riches and Trusting in God. 
Luke 12:13-24. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
Long Meter, 

One who by Master should be led, 
That one among the crowd then said, 
''My brother ask," Entreat I Thee, 
''Divide inheritance with me." 

The Master then the man did ask, 
"Whoever gave Me such a task?" 
"Beware of eagerness to save. 
Does life consist in what you crave?" 

The ground of rich man brought forth much ; 
And so to-day it's often such. 
The rich man said, "What shall I do 
With all my goods, which are not few?" 

' ' The old barns must come down, ' ' he said, 
"And greater ones I'll build instead. 
Within their walls my goods I'll store, 
And take my ease, years, many more." 

' ' This night thy soul 's required of thee, ' ' 
Said God above, which stopped his glee; 
And so is every one to-day. 
Who, trusting riches, go astray. 

Now take no thought what you shall eat, 
Or what you wear, I do entreat. 
If God takes care of birds of air 
He'll care for you, so ne'er despair. 



20 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



March 8, 1914. Watchfulness (Temperance Lesson). 
Luke 12:35-48. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Long Meter. 

Let loins about thee girded be, 
And lamps so burning, all may see. 
Yourselves should be, like men who wait, 
His coming soon, or coming late. 

If you would now be ready sure, 
Partake of God's word, food so pure: 
And then in truth we can relate, 
That blest indeed is your estate. 

Acquit yourselves like valiant men, 
Expecting Him, you know not when. 
Rejoice, be glad in mind and heart. 
For from you then He'll ne'er depart. 

The Master may come any time. 
Be free from sin, be free from crime. 
So when He comes He '11 say, ' ' Well done. 
Come home. My child, your race is run." 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 21 



March 15, 1914. The Lawful Use of the Sabbath. Luke 
13:10-17; 14:1-6. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
Long Meter. 

Then Jesus on the Sabbath day 
Did there a mighty work display. 
He healed a woman, was infirm 
For eighteen years, so long a term. 

The woman then was very brave ; 

To God the glory then she gave. 

Although the ruler did protest 

'Gainst Sabbath work, said, "You should rest." 

But Jesus let them know right there 
That needed work they did not spare. 
Should not this woman, bound for years, 
Be now released from all her tears? 

The foes of Christ were put to shame 
To think they'd ever made such claim, 
While all the crowd rejoiced that day 
To see the work He did display. 

Go work for Jesus, while you may, 
Do good upon the Sabbath daj^; 
Yes, lend a hand to need}^ one, 
Until your race on earth is run. 



22 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 

March 22, 1914. Lessons by the Way. Luke 13:18-35. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
Long Meter. 

As grain of mustard seed in ground, 
Is kingdom of our God so found. 
It grows to be a mighty tree 
In which the birds sing joyfully. 

In villages and cities too 
He teaches as He passes through. 
While their attention He doth claim, 
Jerusalem is now His aim. 

"Are only few saved?" one would know. 
He'd have them fight against the foe. 
And strive to enter narrow gate 
Before the time when 'tis too late. 

For many seek to enter in. 
But they can not because of sin. 
The Master rises, shuts the door; 
An entrance then they do implore. 

Then they begin to stand without. 
"Lord, open to us," they do shout. 
The Master says, "I know you not, 
On earth my service you forgot." 

They do their good works then relate. 
The Master says, "It is too late ' ' ; 
But to the Christians He doth say, 
"Come dwell with Me in endless day." 

No need of sun, no need of moon, 
In heavenly home, where we '11 be soon, 
For God Himself is there the light, 
And all is day, there is no night. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



23 



March 29, 1914. Review Lesson. Selections from First 
Quarter's Poems. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Then Jesus, in their midst sets child ; 
So meek and lovely, ! so mild, 
And teaches them to childlike be; 
Not jealous, but from sin set free. 
Eternal life we can not buy : 
For 'tis free gift from God on high. 
Let's not depend on works we do. 
But trust the Lord, His way pursue. 

To villages and cities too, 
There Jesus preached the gospel true. 
Sometimes we think we 'd love to hear, 
As those of old, that voice so dear. 
Good women then were in the crowd; 
Of such you know we 're always proud. 
! how they help us on our way. 
And cheer us on from day to day. 

* ' The old barns must come down, ' ' he said, 
' ' And greater ones I '11 build instead. 
Within their walls my goods I'll store, 
And take my ease, years many more. 
''This night thy soul's required of thee," 
Said God above, which stopped his glee ; 
And so is ev'ry one to-day. 
Who, trusting riches, go astray. 

They do, their good works, then relate. 
The Master says, "It is too late ' ' ; 
But to the Christian He doth say, 
' ' Come dwell with Me in endless day. ' ' 
No need of sun, no need of moon. 
In heavenly home, where we'll be soon, 
For God Himself is there the light, 
And all is day, there is no night. 



24 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



April 5, 1914. Christ's Table Talk. Luke 14:7-24. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

When bidden to a wedding feast, 
Choose not the best room, but the least ; 
Lest man of honor should appear. 
And take the room which you hold dear. 

When others you would have to dine, 
And at your table, there recline, 
Call not the rich and kindred dear. 
But bid the poor and lame appear. 

Then happy ever should you be : 
They cannot recompense, give thee : 
But in the resurrection day, 
Receive a great reward, you may. 

A supper great, the Master made. 
A number large to it He bade. 
The first had bought a piece of ground ; 
Then viewing it, he soon was found. 

A yoke of oxen, one had bought. 
To try them then, at once he sought. 
Another said, "I've married wife, 
Can't come, for she's my joy of life." 

Much angered was the Master then, 
Who sent them out for needy men. 
They bid the poor, the blind, the lame. 
Abundant room remained the same. 

"Now into highways, hedges go, 
Until my house is filled, you know. 
I say to you, none shall partake. 
Who did my message, thus forsake." 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



25 



April 12, 1914. The Journey to Emmaus. Luke 24:13-35. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

The two disciples there did talk 
As to Emmaus they did walk. 
Their loving Savior did appear; 
The blessed Son of God drew near. 

Their eyes were holden, did not know 
Companion, who with them did go. 
Then Jesus sought to draw them out, 
Just as to what they 'd talked about. 

They 'd talked of Jesus, slain for all ; 
The rich, the poor, the great, the small. 
They'd talked of resurrection day. 
As they were walking on their way. 

And as they went, it was just then 
That Jesus called them foolish men, 
And slow of heart, just to believe 
God's prophets who did ne'er deceive. 

As to the village they drew near. 
As though He'd pass, it did appear. 
They begged Him stay with them that night. 
The Savior, let us thus invite. 

He took the loaf. He blessed. He broke. 
"It is the Lord," at once they spoke. 
'Tis sweet communion, all day through, 
When Jesus goes along with you. 



26 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



April 19, 1914. Cost of Discipleship. Luke 14:25-35. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

The Lord was famous at that time, 
He was so lovely, so sublime. 
Great multitudes, to hear Him, came, 
So very great then was His fame. 

Disciples do not realize 

What in the service re'lly lies. 

So great the love for Christ should be 

That love for others seems to flee. 

And though you honor parents here, 
And friends and kindred held so dear. 
The love for Christ should be so great 
That love for others seems but hate. 

Whoever does not bear his cross 
And follow Christ will feel the loss: 
For he disciple cannot be 
Of Jesus, who woiild make him free. 

Whene'er you have great work to do, 
What it will cost keep full in view. 
Should you attempt and then should fail 
Contempt for you will make you quail. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 27 



April 26, 1914. The Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin. Luke 
15:1-10. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Long Meter. 

The publicans and sinners too 
Drew nigh to Jesus, not a few ; 
Though not to worship, but to find 
Some fault in Him, they were inclined. 

He tells them sheep had gone astray 
Into the desert, far away. 
The ninety-nine in fold remained, 
And there their safety thus obtained. 

Through desert shepherd traveled far ; 
For loss of sheep, his peace did mar. 
True courage shepherd did not lack. 
He found the sheep. He brought it back. 

He calls his friends and neighbors too. 
"Rejoice with me at what you view. 
My sheep was lost, but now is found. 
In all your hearts let joy abound." 

Did mother teach you God's own way, 
And from her teachings did you stray ? 
Now hear the Savior's gentle voice, 
"Come back, My child, with Me rejoice." 



28 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



May 3, 1914. The Prodigal Son. Luke 15:11-32. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

A certain man, two sons he had. 
The one was good, the other bad. 
The younger said, "My portion give, 
At home, no longer, will I live." 

The father then at once decides. 
And property he then divides, 
Then into country, far a,way, 
Beloved boy now goes astray. 

From wisdom's ways there was a fall. 
He wasted there his substance, all. 
A famine, very great, arose. 
To feed the swine, he did propose. 

''There is no joy away out here. 
For all is lonely, all is drear. 
From home, no longer will I roam. 
But seek my father 's home, sweet home. ' ' 

The father meets him on the way. 
That ragged boy, who went astray. 
Then humble doth the boy appear. 
As welcomed back by father, dear. 

If you have wandered far away. 
In paths of sin, gone far astray, 
Return to God, who will forgive. 
Then you may with Him ever live. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 29 



May 10, 1914. The Unjust Steward. Luke 16:1-13. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Disciples, Jesus now doth tell, 
Of certain rich man, there did dwell. 
His steward wasted goods, 'tis so. 
From stewardship he soon must go. 

"What shall I do?" the steward said. 
To win the debtors, he was led, 
By making less the debt they owed, 
And from their shoulders lifting load. 

And thus their favor he would gain. 
By kindness now, 'tis very plain, 
When stewardship he must give up. 
He may go in with them and sup. 

The Master praised the steward's scheme 

As being prudent, it doth seem, 

But not his action in the sight 

Of great Jehovah, deemed He right. 

Whate'er is Master's rightly use. 
Then higher place He'll not refuse. 
And bye and bye He'll call you home, 
Where with the loved ones you may roam. 



30 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



May 17, 1914. The Rich Man and Lazarus. Luke 6:20-26; 
16:19-31. 

Long Meter. 

Unto the poor, the hungry dear, 
Unto the weeping, hated here, 
Christ says rejoice, yes leap for joy, 
Eeward is great in heaven's employ. 

Woe unto rich, who have on earth, 
Their consolation, and their mirth. 
Woe unto full and laughing now; 
Respected ones must humbly bow. 

At rich man's gate there lay one day 
A certain beggar, in dismay. 
'Twas Lazarus, we have his name. 
The rich man was not honored same. 

The poor man died and went to rest; 
The rich man could not stand the test; 
But when the rich man also dies. 
In torment lifts he up his eyes. 

Then let us not ourselves deceive; 
How glad some would be to believe 
That sin will not be punished by 
Our loving Father, by and by. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 31 



May 24, 1914. Unprofitable Servants. Luke 17:1-10. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
Long Meter. 

The Savior at that time did say, 

That stumbling-blocks should come their way. 

Then Jesus does the matter sum, 

'Tis woe to him through whom they come. 

Put not a snare in way of child, 
So meek and lovely, ! so mild. 
Cause not the child from Christ to stray, 
But let him choose the narrow way. 

Forgiving spirit manifest, 
Then surely will your lives be blest. 
"Whene'er thy brother doth repent. 
Forgive him, or you may relent. 

Our loving Father, up on high. 
Is to His children, ever nigh. 
We are joint heirs, with God above. 
To us He manifests His love. 



32 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



May 31, 1914. The Grateful Samaritan. Luke 17:11-19. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Samaria and Galilee, 
Did Jesus pass through, now we see. 
Jerusalem was now His aim. 
Salvation free. He did proclaim. 

Ten leprous men, stood far away. 

To Jesus Master they did say. 

In pleading terms, "Lord mercy show." 

That He could heal, they seemed to know. 

Then Jesus said to them that day, 
' ' Now go to priests, without delay. ' ' 
To His request, they all did yield. 
Before they reached them, all were healed. 

Samaritan did all amaze. 
When he turned back, the Lord to praise. 
Then Jesus says, "Where are the nine, 
They too were healed by power divine?" 

For all the blessings God doth give, 
Let's glorify Him, while we live. 
Like stranger did, in humble way. 
The Master then will near us stay. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 33 



June 7, 1914. The Coming of the Kingdom. Luke 17: 
20-37. 

Long Meter. 

And being asked by Phai'isee 

As to the time when we shall see 

The kingdom of our God above, 

The God of wisdom, God of love; 

He answers them then right away, 
"It now is here without delay; 
The kingdom is in midst of you. ' ' 
The King Himself they then did view. 

The Lord must suffer many things : 
The pain of death, which sorely stings. 
Before that day, when saints are proud 
To see His coming in the cloud. 

Perhaps the day is very near. 

In which the Master will appear; 

So be ye ready, ev'ry one. 

Your race on earth will soon be run. 

It came to pass in days of Lot 

That multitudes, their God forgot. 

They ate, they drank, they bought, they sold. 

In sacred scripture, this we're told. 

But on the day when Lot went out. 
The fire came down, without a doubt, 
Consuming Sodom right away, 
As well as those who there did stay. 

Whoever seeks to gain this life, 
The same may lose, amid the strife. 
"Whoever here, his life would lose, 
The King of kings, will not refuse. 



34 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



June 14, 1914. The Friend of Sinners. Luke 18:9-14; 
19:1-10. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

A parable now Jesus speaks, 
To do some good, He always seeks. 
He spoke of two, who went to pray, 
The vain, the humble, in his way. 

The Pharisee was vecry vain, 
God's favor, he did not obtain. 
The publican did humbly pray, 
Grod's blessing came without delay. 

Then Jesus passed through Jerico, 
As on His journey He did go. 
Zaccheus wished the Lord to see, 
And ran before and climbed a tree. 

The tree he climbed was sycamore. 
''Come down," then Jesus did implore, 
"I must abide with thee today." 
Then down he came, without delay. 

The people murmured very much 
That Jesus stooped to dine with such. 
Dishonest, rich, and sinner too, 
He was according to their view. 

Zaccheus proved his heart sincere. 
By giving much, by him held dear. 
He'd sought to see the Lord that day, 
And Jesus turned him not away. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 35 



June 21, 1914. The Great Refusal, Mark 10:17-31. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
As Jesus went forth in the way, 
A wealthy young man then did say, 
"Good Master, What can I now do, 
That I, the golden streets may view?" 

"Why call Me good," then Jesus said 
To that young man, who would be led ; 
"For Grod is good, the only one 
Of all that is beneath the sun." 

Commandments then did Jesus name. 
The young man said, " I 've kept the same ; 
Yes, from my youth, I Ve kept them all, 
E 'en from the great, down to the small. ' ' 

' ' One thing thou lackest, go thy way, 
Sell all thou hast, ' ' the Lord did say ; 
' ' Then give to poor, those things you love. 
And treasures have, in heaven above." 

The young man could not think of such. 
Of earthly wealth, he thought too much. 
From Jesus he did then depart. 
And went away so sad of heart. 

Don't set your hearts on things of earth, 
But on the things of greater worth. 
Then treasures you may have above 
In heavenly home where all is love. 



3i6 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



June 28, 1914. My Favorite Stanzas from the Second 
Quarter's Poems. 

He took the loaf, He blessed, He broke. 
"It is the Lord," at once they spoke. 
'Tis sweet commuuion, all day through, 
When Jesus goes along with you. 

Did mother teach you God's own way. 
And from her teachings did you stray? 
Now hear the Savior's gentle voice, 
"Come back, my child, with Me rejoice." 

"There is no joy away out here, 
For all is lonely, all is drear. 
From home, no longer will I roam. 
But seek my father's home, sweet home." 

Put not a snare in way of child, 
So meek and lovely, ! so mild. 
Cause not the child from Christ to stray. 
But let him choose the narrow way. 

The tree he climbed was sycamore. 
"Come down," then Jesus did implore, 
"I must abide with thee today." 
Then down he came, without delay. 

Zaecheus proved his heart sincere. 
By giving much, by him held dear. 
He'd sought to see the Lord that day. 
And Jesus turned him not away. 

Don't set your hearts on things of earth, 
But on the things of greater worth. 
Then treasures you may have above. 
In heavenly home, where all is love. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 37 



July 5, 1914. The Laborers in the Vineyard. Matt. 20: 
1-16. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Disciples, Jesus taught that day, 
That trusting riches will not pay. 
"We have left all," then Peter said, 
''What shall we have, how high be led?'* 

'Twas Peter's question, is what led 

The Savior, as to what He said. 

'Tis taught in lesson of today 

That Lord with own, does what He may. 

Then in your dealings do not strive. 
Hard bargain with the Lord to drive. 
Contented ones, they come out best. 
'Tis so in Life, they lead the rest. 

Now walk in paths by fathers trod, 
"Who trusted all rewards to God ; 
For if you trust Him as you may, 
iSuccess will surely come to stay. 



38 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



July 12, 1914. Greatness Through Service. Mark 10: 
32-45. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

'Tis now they are near Jericho, 
As to Jerusalem they go. 
To face the cross, the Savior goes, 
Steadfastly up to meet His foes. 

Once more He calls the twelve aside. 
To them He would the truth confide, 
How He must suffer, bleed, and die, 
That we may reign with Him on high. 

And yet, they cannot understand. 

A high position they command. 

How strange to think, how dull they were, 

And other subjects did prefer. 

Keep Jesus' question full in view, 
* ' What would ye have Me do for you ? ' ' 
For if ye near the Savior live 
And ask aright, He'll surely give. 

Whoever 'mong you great would be, 
From selfisliness you must be free. 
'Twas Jesus Christ, His life He gave 
Upon the cross, oui- souls to save. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



July 19, 1914. Blind Bartimaeus. Mark 10:46-52. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

As they go forth from Jericho, 
As on their journey, now they go. 
Blind Bartimaeus sat near by, 
And now to Jesus he doth cry, 

''Thou Son of David, Lord of all, 
'Tis Thou canst help me, when I call. 
Before Thee now I humbly bow, 
0! blessed Jesus, help me now." 

The ones who doth rebuke the man. 
And try to stop him, if they can. 
Were bidden, "Bring the man to Me." 
A sight restored, at once they see. 

Blind Bartimaeus called Him then. 
He never passed that way again. 
! erring one, to Jesus cry. 
Be saved while He is passing by. 



39 



40 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



July 26, 1914. The Pounds and the Talents. Luke 19: 
11-27. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Long Meter. 

Jerusalem is now near by, 
And soon the Lord ascends on high. 
Before the end, so near in reach, 
He would to them a lesson teach. 

Now Jesus tries to make them see, 
A temp'ral king He will not be. 
But into country far away. 
Must go, and there awhile must stay. 

A pound just now, He gives to each. 
To occupy. He doth now teach. 
Whate'er the Lord doth you present, 
For best of use, it sure is meant. 

Be ready for the Lord each day; 
Much longer He'll not stay away, 
Then when your course on earth is done. 
Well done, thou good and faithful one. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 41 



August 2, 1914. The Triumphant Entry. Mark 11:1-11. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Jerusalem they're nearing now. 
The Lord sends two, and tells them how 
They'll find a colt, and all 'bout that; 
Yes, one on which man never sat. 

' ' Then loose the colt and bring to Me. 
If any man should say to thee, 
' Why loose the colt ? ' then answer this. 
The Lord must ride him, must not miss." 

They brought the colt to Jesus then. 
The garments were of many men 
Then casts upon him, there that day, 
"When Jesus mounts, without delay. 

Their garments in the way they spread, 
On road which to the city led. 
And also branches from the trees. 
Which just had swung in playful breeze. 

Hosanna shouts are very loud. 
Of Jesus, they are now so proud. 
Some of the ones who'd loudly cried, 
How sad to think, their Lord denied. 

His holy name, let's praise today, 
With loving hearts, let's Him obey. 
Hosannas then we'll ever shout. 
On golden streets, we'll walk about. 



42 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



August 9, 1914. The Barren Fig Tree and the Defiled 
Temple. Mark 11:12-33. 

Trochaic Trimeter Verse, with the Accented Half-foot. 

Mary, also Martha too, 
Always loved tlieii- best to do. 
Jesus with, the twelve could rest. 
In aceustomed home, the best. 

In the morning they depart. 
Very early is their start. 
Jesus hungers on the way. 
At the fig tree, they delay. 

But no fruit, the Master found. 
Only leaves did there abound. 
If we only well appear, 
"We'll not please our Savior dear. 

Into temple, now they go. 
In the presence of the foe. 
Jesus cleanses temple then, 
In the face of hostile men. 

On next morning, then they see 
"Withered, worthless, dried up tree. 
Peter said to Lord, "Behold, 
Fig tree withered, as you told. ' ' 

Jesus teaches friends so dear, 
"Pray in faith, and God will hear." 
Feed upon God's word each day; 
He'll give faith without delay. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 43 



August 16, 1914. The Wicked Husbandman. Matt. 21: 
33-46. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
Householder is a certain man, 
Who plants a vineyard best he can. 
He puts a hedge around it then 
And lets it out to husbandmen. 

Then into country far away, 
He goes and for awhile doth stay ; 
But at the season of the fruit, 
His claim for same, they then dispute. 

How sad the story to repeat, 
His servants, all, they did mistreat. 
That confidence might then be won, 
He sends to them His only Son. 

"This is the heir; let's kill Him now," 
Among themselves they did avow. 
Such was the madness of those men, 
They thrust Him out, they killed Him then. 

Their blessed Lord, they did abuse. 
His joyful message, did refuse. 
God takes the kingdom from them then. 
And gives it o'er to fruitful men. 



44 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



August 23, 1914. The Wedding Feast. Matt. 22:1-14. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
A marriage feast was made by king. 
The joyful news for son did ring. 
King sent his servants to invite. 
To call his own was his delight. 

Two chosen ones did then refuse, 
The ones who represent the Jews. 
To work they went without delay ; 
The rest killed servants right away. 

His soldiers then the king doth send, 
Who killed them all, you may depend, 
And burns their cities to the ground, 
Until no trace of them is found. 

The king then said to servants there, 
' ' The feast is ready, room to spare. 
Invited ones, unworthy were. 
Now all ye find, I do prefer." 

Those servants went then all around. 
And gathered many as they found. 
They brought in many as they could: 
And some were bad and some were good. 

The king beheld unworthy guest; 
In wedding garment was not dressed. 
To outer darkness he was cast; 
be not this our fate at last ! 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 45 



August 30, 1914. A Day of Questions. Matt. 22:15-33. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

The Pharisees consult just how 
They may ensnare the Savior now. 
"With Rome, in conflict they would bring 
The Lord, who'd made their conscience sting. 

The smoothest words, the foe doth use, 
And think, the Lord they can confuse ; 
Presuming they can make Him say 
"To heathen, tribute do not pay." 

The Pharisees then do their best. 
But Jesus stands their cunning test, 
And puts to silence all around. 
With Him no longer are they found. 

The Sadducees now try their hand. 

Of resurrection they demand, 

"Whose wife is she of all the seven 

When they have reached their home in heaven. ' ' 

Then Jesus tells without delay 
That in the home where they now stay 
They do not marry in that land, 
But as the angels, now they stand. 



46 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



September 6, 1914. The Great Commandments. Mark 
12:28-44. 

Trochaic Trimeter Verse, with the Accented Half-foot. 

7s Meter. 

Love the Lord with all thine heart; 
In your youth get early start. 
Love the Lord with all thy soul, 
If at last you 'd reach the goal. 

Love the Lord with all thy strength, 
That thy life may be of length. 
Love the Lord with all thy mind, 
To your fellow men be kind. 

As thyself, love neighbor too: 
Ever keep his good in view. 
Favor done to neighbor here 
Is as done to Jesus dear. 

If commandments you will keep, 
Then your heart with joy will leap. 
And in heav'n there will be joy. 
Where there's nothing to annoy. 

how happy we will be, 
There from sin and sorrow free, 
There beholding Jesus' face. 
In that happy, happy place! 

When not able to do much, 
Think what Jesus said of such ; 
Widow casts in two mites, small ; 
Jesus said, '' 'Twas more than all." 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 47 

September 13, 1914. The Ten Virgins. Matt. 25:1-13. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Long Meter. 

The lieav'nly kingdom then shall be, 

Jnst like ten virgins, here we see ; 

Who took their lamps, and went to greet 

The bridegroom, whom they soon should meet. 

Then five were foolish, five were wise. 
The wise gave foolish great surprise. 
They would not give to foolish oil, 
Which they'd secured by earnest toil. 

"Perhaps there will be none to spare," 
At once the wise ones did declare, 
"So go to those who sell and buy," 
The five wise virgins did reply. 

While they were gone away to buy. 
The bridegroom came, yes, very nigh. 
Those who were ready, then went in, 
But some were barred because of sin. 

Then came the foolish virgins nigh. 
"Lord, open to us," they did cry. 
The Master said, "I know you not." 
To ready be, they had forgot. 

Grant, Lord, that this be not our fate 
To hear the doleful words, too late. 
may we ever watch and pray. 
That we may live in endless day. 



48 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



September 20, 1914. The Judgment of the Nations. Matt. 
25:31-46. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

When Jesus comes, yes in the cloud, 
To meet Him then, will we be proud ? 
Before Him will be gathered all, 
The good, the bad, both great and small. 

He'll separate them there that day. 
To glory some will go to stay. 
To others He will say depart. 
Thus striking terror to their heart. 

Accepted ones will be surprised; 

The good they'd done they'd ne'er surmised. 

"The good ye did to least of these 

"Was done to Master, whom you please." 

To bad, whose good He did desire, 
He'll cast into eternal fire. 
"Ye did no good to least of Mine. 
To favor you I'm not inclined." 

On earth, much longer we 'U not stay ; 
The Lord may call us any day. 
To meet Him at the judgment bar. 
That day from us, it is not far. 

Let's ever battle 'gainst the foe. 

And ever ready be to go; 

For soon the Lord will call us home. 

Where with the loved ones we may roam. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 49 



September 27, 1914. My Favorite Stanzas from the Third 
Quarter's Poems. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Whoever 'mong you great would be, 
From selfishness you must be free. 
'Twas Jesus Christ, His life He gave 
Upon the cross, our souls to save. 

Blind Bartimaeus called Him then, 
He never passed that way again, 
erring one, to Jesus cry, 
Be saved while He is passing by ! 

His holy name, let's praise today, 
With loving hearts, let's Him obey. 
Hosannas then we'll ever shout. 
On golden streets, we '11 walk about. 

Their blessed Lord, they did abuse. 
His joyful message did refuse. 
Grod takes the kingdom from them then, 
And gives it o'er to fruitful men. 

The king beheld unworthy guest; 
In wedding garment was not dressed. 
To outer darkness he was cast ; 
be not this our fate at last! 

Grant, Lord, that this be not our fate 
To hear the doleful words, too late. 
may we ever watch and pray. 
That we may live in endless day. 

Let's ever battle, 'gainst the foe, 
And ever ready be to go ; 
For soon the Lord will call us home. 
Where with the loved ones we may roam. 



50 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



October 4, 1914. Christ Anointed for Burial. Mark 14: 
1-11. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Long Meter. 

The chief priests and the scribes that day, 
Then sought to lead the Lord away, 
By craft they 'd take and kill Him there : 
His life no longer would they spare. 

While at the table He reclined. 
There came a woman up behind, 
"With flask of ointment, very dear, 
Anointing Jesus without fear. 

The woman was rebuked, that day. 
' ' Let her alone, ' ' the Lord did say, 
"She did the very best she could. 
Thus proving that her heart was good." 

"The poor ye have always with you. 
Whene'er you wish can help them too; 
But Me ye have not always here. 
Among you soon I '11 not appear. ' ' 

"Where'er the gospel shall be preached. 
In all the world, by preachers reached, 
This story shall to all be told, 
These simple facts they will unfold." 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 51 



October 11, 1914. The Last Supper. Mark 14:12-25. 
Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
Long Meter. 

On first day of unleaven bread, 
To Jesus then disciples said, 
' ' Where dost Thou wish us now to go, 
Prepare passover 'way from foe?" 

'Twas John and Peter sent He then. 
With full instructions to these men. 
Just how they'd find guest-chamber there. 
In which passover to prepare. 

At evening with the twelve He came. 
He shows that one will be to blame, 
That one who 's eating with them there, 
Soon to betray, he will repair. 

In sorrow did disciples cry, 

''0 blessed Master, is it I?" 

But soon they learned what they did wish, 

'Twas one that dipped with Him in dish. 

''As often as ye eat this bread, 
And drink this cup," the Master said, 
"Ye do proclaim the death of Lord, 
Until He comes to give reward." 



52 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



October 18, 1914. In the Garden of Gethsemane. Mark 
14:32-42. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Then came they to Gethsemane, 
Wliere Jesus makes this humble plea, 
"0 sit ye here, until I pray. 
Ask God to keep you in the way ! ' ' 

'Twas Peter, James, and John He took ; 
But soon the Master they forsook. 
The Lord would have them watch and pray. 
They went to sleep, 'tis strange to say. 

The Master there was sore distressed. 
His grief was great, His soul oppressed. 
The loving Savior fell to ground. 
On going forward, it was found. 

He prayed that cup might pass away. 
He would that it no longer stay ; 
But that He'd do the Father's will. 
In minds of all, He did instill. 

Third time disciples went to sleep. 
Their eyes then open, could not keep. 
"Do ye sleep on and take your rest? 
Betrayal's here must be confessed." 

fellow-man, let's watch and pray, 
Keep wide awake, and never stray, 
Let's sympathize with those in grief, 
And do our best to give relief. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 53 



October 25, 1914. Jesus and Judas. Matt. 26:14-25, 
47-50; 27:3-10. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 
Long Meter. 

Then Judas bargains to betray 
The blessed Lord, without delay. 
Just thirty pieces was the price, 
So small a sum, did him entice. 

He leads the band along the way; 
With kiss, the Master doth betray. 
Said Jesus, He without a blame, 
"At once do that for which ye came." 

Then Judas, who betrayed Him there. 
Now feels condemned, is in despair. 
'Tis then he feels his crime so black. 
The thirty pieces he brings back. 

The Lord who came on earth to save 
Was sold for simply price of slave ; 
'Bout nineteen dollars, so small. 
That Judas got, yes, that was all. 

He throws it into temple there, 
And then goes out in black despair. 
He hangs himself without delay, 
One of the twelve, we're sad to say. 

If, blessed Lord, we ne 'er deny, 

We will enjoy sweet by and by, 

In happy home beyond the sky, 

In mansions bright, with God on high. 



54 EELIGIOUS POEMS. 



November 1, 1914. The Arrest and Trial of Jesus. Matt. 
26:57-68. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Disciples all left Jesus then, 
Companion once for all these men. 
By band is Jesus led away. 
In garden longer doth not stay. 

Then Peter follows, far away. 
He would not near the Master stay. 
Not long ago, 'twas Peter said, 
"I'll ne'er deny, when all have fled." 

'Tis fault in Jesus, they would find. 
Their wicked hearts are thus inclined ; 
Yet silent Master doth remain. 
Their end in view, they soon obtain. 

"Deserves He death," they did declare; 
In all their treatment was not fair. 
They even spit in Jesus' face. 
To do the right there was no trace. 

Contempt for us. He suffered much : 
It pains our hearts, to think of such: 
Then let us love Him all the more. 
His tender mercies, oft implore. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 55 



November 8, 1914. Sowing and Reaping. Gal. 6:1-10. 
7s Meter. 

Whatsoever man doth sow, 
That he'll reap, the world doth know. 
If we sow the best of seed, 
Harvest good, we 11 reap indeed. 

If a man be found in fault, 
Make. not on him an assault, 
But restore that man in love. 
Meet approval from above. 

One Another's burdens bear, 
Ever treat your brother fair. 
Find not fault in leader true, 
As your journey you pursue. 

Be not led astray from right ; 
Be ye valiant in the fight, 
God is mocked by none at all ; 
What ye sow, ye '11 reap in fall. 

If ye sow to flesh ye '11 reap 
That which ye should never keep. 
Sow to Spirit, love the Lord; 
Life eternal is reward. 

Never weary doing well, 
Good ye do, ye cannot tell; 
And ye '11 reap in heaven above 
Happiness with God of love. 



56 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



November 15, 1914. Jesus and Peter. Mark 14:27-31, 53, 
54, 66-72. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Long Meter. 

Then Jesus to disciples said, 
The men whom He so long had led, 
"Ye all shall stumble, what a sight! 
Ye '11 stumble, yes, this very night." 

"I'll smite the shepherd, then the sheep, 
Together longer will not keep ; 
But when I'm risen evermore. 
To Galilee, I'll go before." 

But Peter said, " 'Tis this you'll see. 
Though all offended, I'll not be"; 
But Jesus lets him know just then 
He'll stumble like the other men. 

Then Jesus to high priest was led, 
As long before the prophets said ; 
And Peter followed far away. 
And would not near the Master stay. 

When Peter had denied and fled, 
Eemembered he what Jesus said, 
"Before the cock crow only twice, 
Thou surely shalt deny Me thrice." 

Since we our Lord so oft forsake, 
From Peter's life, we courage take. 
And onward go, and trust we may 
With Peter live in endless day. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 57 



November 22, 1914. Jesus and Pilate. Luke 23:13-25. 
Trochaic Trimeter Verse, with the Accented Half-foot. 

7s Meter. 

Pilate called both great and small, 
Chief priests, rulers, people all. 
Said he to them, "Ye have brought 
This as one, with evil fraught"; 

"But no fault, in Him, I find; 
To condemn, I'm not inclined, 
Thus to me, it doth now seem; 
And my wife had warning dream." 

Also Herod found no fault; 
Did not on Him, make assault. 
"I'll chastise, and let Him go. 
Will release Him, even so." 

That desire, they then denied, 
And together loudly cried 
"Loose Barabbas right away, 
Who for crime in prison lay ' ' ; 

"Jesus you must crucify." 
Longer Pilate don't deny, 
But gave sentence at request, 
All creation knows the rest. 

Pilate wished to do the right, 
But the people gave affright. 
Do what conscience bids you do ; 
Let not wicked change your view. 



58 . RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



November 29, 1914. Christ Crucified. Mark 15:22-39. 
7s Meter. 

To Golgotha now they bring 
Jesns, who in truth is King. 
Offered they to give Him wine. 
Not accepted by Divine. 

Law and justice they defy. 
Jesus now they crucify. 
They divide His garments then, 
Casting lots among the men. 

Long upon the cross He hangs ; 
For six hours endures the pangs. 
Crucified between two thieves: 
Blessed Lord, no one relieves. 

Mocked was Jesus there that day ; 
Many cruel words they say ; 
But the robbers by His side, 
Get they not a single gibe. 

At the ninth hour Jesus cried 
With loud voice, and there He died. 
There He died that we might live ; 
to Him, your hearts now give ! 

Surely He hath borne our grief. 
Carried sorrows, gave relief. 
Trust the Savior, now today, 
Live with Him in endless day. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



59 



December 6, 1914. Christ Risen from the Dead. Mark 
16:1-8; Matt. 28:11-15. 

7s Meter. 

Spices the two Marys brought ; 
Jesus' body soon they sought. 
Early in the morning there, 
To the tomb they did repair. 

''Who shall roll away the stone?" 
Thus their case they did bemoan. 
When they looked the stone was gone. 
This they saw at early dawn. 

We are glad that we can say 
In the grave He did not stay. 
Now we know the saints will rise ; 
Yes, to meet Him in the skies. 

"Go tell Peter," angel said, 
"Christ is risen from the dead. 
Tell disciples joyful news, 
Quickly go, do not refuse. ' ' 

Angel bid them not to fear, 

"He is risen, is not here, 

Into Galilee He goes; 

That you'll meet Him there He knows." 

Tell to world the joyful news ; 
Glorius message don't refuse. 
Tell how Jesus came to die, 
Buried, rose, and reigns on high. 



60 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



December 13, 1914. The Great Commission. Matt. 28: 
16-20; Luke 24:36-49. 

Long Meter. 

Eleven disciples went to see 
Their blessed Lord, in Gralilee. 
The one who did His Lord betray, 
From earthly scenes had passed away. 

They worshiped Jesus there that day; 
Some doubted though, 'tis strange to say ; 
But Jesus shows His hands and feet, 
To prove, it is the Lord they meet. 

"A spirit hath not flesh and bones. 
No need of sighs, no need of moans. ' ' 
He asked them for a piece of meat, 
To prove, as others, He could eat. 

' ' I told you while I was with you 
Just what with Me they'd surely do." 
Their understanding opened He, 
That scripture 's truth they might then see. 

"Among all nations must ye preach; 

In simple manner gospel teach. 

In Holy City tarry ye, 

Till Spirit's power shall fall on thee." 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 61 



December 20, 1914. The Ascension. Luke 24:50-53; 
Acts 1:1-11. 

7s. 

After resurrection day, 
Forty days doth Jesus stay, 
Giving proofs to great and small. 
That He is the Lord of all. 

"In Jerusalem do stay. 
Holy Spirit, I '11 display. 
Witness for Me then you may 
While on earth you longer stay. ' ' 

He was taken up above, 
Jesus, whom we dearly love ; 
With His Father must appear. 
For He'd finished mission here. 

As they stood to view this sight, 
Two men stood in raiment, white ; 
And they said, "Why stand ye here, 
For again He will appear?" 

Those apostles in that day 
Thought the Lord would not delay, 
But would come while they were here ; 
Though He doth not yet appear. 



62 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



Dec. 27, 1914. Fourtli Quarter's Review. My Favorite 
Stanzas. 

Long Meter. 

''Where'er the gospel shall be preached, 
In all the world, by preachers reached. 
This story shall to all be told, 
These simple facts they will unfold." 

''As often as ye eat this bread, 
And drink this cup," the Master said, 
"Ye do proclaim the death of Lord, 
Until He comes to give reward." 

! fellow-man, let 's watch and pray, 
Keep wide awake, and never stray, 
Let's sympathize with those in grief. 
And do our best to give relief. 

If, blessed Lord, we ne'er deny, 
"We will enjoy sweet by and by. 
In happy home beyond the sky. 
In mansions bright, with God on high. 

Contempt for us. He suffered much; 
It pains our hearts, to think of such: 
Then let us love Him all the more. 
His tender mercies oft implore. 

Since we our Lord so oft forsake. 
From Peter's life, we courage take, 
And onward go, and trust we may 
With Peter live, in endless day. 

Go tell to world the joyful news; 
That glorious message don't refuse. 
Yes, tell how Jesus came to die. 
Was buried, rose, and reigns on high. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 63 



My first poem on the International Sunday School 
Lessons. 

July 9, 1911. Thoughts on the Sunday School Lesson. 
Isaiah 52:13-53; 12. 

Long Meter, 

Isaiah prophet, great of old, 
The coming Savior well foretold; 
Yes, more than seven hundred years 
Before the time when Christ appears. 

Isaiah told the story well, 
How Christ would come on earth to dwell. 
A man of sorrow, poor, oppressed 
Despised by those who loved Him best. 

The story so minutely told 
In ev'ry detail makes us bold 
To say, He is the Christ indeed, 
Oh yes ! the very Christ we need. 

Let's tell the world, yes, all around, 
About the Savior we have found; 
How Jesus died to save us all. 
The rich, the poor, the great, the small. 



64 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



July 16, 1911. Thoughts on the Sunday School Lesson. 
2 Chron. 33:1-13. 

Long Meter. 

Manasseh lived so long in sin; 
His life, Oh ! what it might have been, 
Had he but lived a righteous life, 
Amid the tumult and the strife. 

A man who's bad may live for years; 
Eemember though the bitter tears, 
That he must shed ere he gets right, 
Yes, turns from darkness to the light. 

In jacket, full of thorns or nails, 

The captains lead him, though he quails ; 

But best of all Manasseh turned 

From sin to God, whom he had spurned. 

Let's never dare to sow wild oats. 
As down the stream, our bark it floats ; 
For if we do we shall lament, 
As in the future we repent. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 65 



July 23, 1911. Thoughts on the Sunday School Lesson. 
2 Chron. 34:1-13. 

Long Meter. 

Josiah reigned in early youth, 
And followed in the paths of truth. 
When he was only eight years old, 
His reign began, so we are told. 

He started right in early life, 
Yes notwithstanding all the strife 
Which had been just before his reign ; 
The cause of right he would maintain. 

In youth he served his God above, 
That God whom we delight to love. 
Josiah 's greatest, best delight 
Was serve his God and do the right. 

Ho! ev'ry youth, throughout the laud, 
Come join our happy Christian band, 
Don't think it better to delay. 
But come to Jesus, while you may. 



6<> RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



Vug. 27, 1911. Jer. 39:1-10. Thoughts on the Sunday 
S( hool Lesson. 

Long Meter. 

With tears in eyes, we sorely grieve 
To see God's favored people leave 
The happy band of Canaan, fair, 
To dwell in Bab 'Ion over there. 

We think of David's glorious reign, 
Of Solomon, wisest in the train, 
Of Asa, loyal, good and true, 
Jehosaphat, who reigned well too. 

Be sure your sin will find you out ; 
Now this is true, beyond a doubt, 
For Judah proved this proverb true. 
Forsaking God and justice too. 

A nation's downfall, might be ours. 
With all our stately spires and towers, 
If we forget the God above, 
The God whom we should ever love. 

Now let's not think 'twill ever be. 
In glorious land of liberty; 
But let our aspirations be, 
Yes, ever nearer God to Thee. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 67 



September 3, 1911. Review Lesson. Thoughts on the 
Lessons for the Past Quarter. 

Long Meter. 

God honors those who trust, obey, 
And ever near his side do stay. 
He'll help in trouble and distress; 
Will help when others do oppress. 

Efficient Savior, Jesus Christ; 
Then trust Him, do not be enticed 
To drift away, as Judah did. 
Whose sins so great, could not be hid. 

'Tis from Josiah's glorious reign, 
The greatest lesson we obtain 
For children, who should early learn 
To make religion, chief concern. 

Through darkest ages God has kept 
From evil, safe. His own precept. 
God's book will live forevermore; 
He shields it now, as did before. 



68 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



September 10, 1911. Thoughts on the Sunday School 
Lesson, Dan. 1:8-20. 

Long Meter. 

Now Daniel lived, yes, all the while 
The Israelites were in exile. 
He now is fourteen years of age, 
Yet having wisdom as a sage. 

He purposed in his heart, that he. 
Defiled with evil, would not be. 
Let's learn from Daniel's abstinence, 
To never give our God offence. 

Securing ten days' test, shows tact; 
How diplomatic is his act; 
And when the ten days' test is o'er. 
They're fairer, fatter than before. 

Let's purpose have, as Daniel had; 
Let 's do the right, and shun the bad ; 
Let's ask the Savior, that His grace 
May help us better fill our place. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 69 



September 17, 1911. Thoughts on. the Sunday School 
Lesson. Dan. 3:13-27. 

Long Meter. 

Interpretation of a dream, 
Made Daniel ruler, it would seem. 
At his request, his three friends nigh, 
Exalted were to office high. 

Now harmony did only last, 
Till sixteen years had just rolled past ; 
When king demands, to serve they must, 
The gods and images of dust. 

The mighty men took them in hand ; 
In furnace threw, at king's command. 
The king, astonished much was he, 
To see them loose and walking free. 

The king comes near, as he doth shout, 
"Come forth, come hither, yes, come out. 
Ye servants of the God most high, 
Your God we never can deny." 

Don't fear in these United States, 
We'll go beyond the furnace gates; 
But while God does the furnace spare, 
May we the lighter burdens bear. 



70 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



September 24, 1911. Thoughts on the Sunday School 
Lesson. Dan. 6:10-23. 

Long Meter. 

When Daniel knew the king had signed 
The writing, purposed he in mind 
To call upon his God for aid: 
Before His throne, his ease he laid. 

The king was grieved, his soul just yearned 
To save good Daniel, his heart burned. 
From this we see we need not fear. 
But on the side of God appear. 

Now Daniel in the lion's den, 
"Was cast, the same as other men. 
God sent His angel from on high 
To shut the mouths of lions nigh. 

Our God protects us from all fears, 
Protects us too when harm appears, 
Protects from plots of those who hate, 
In spite of difficulties great. 

If you would have men high in life. 
Be friend to you amid the strife, 
Don't fear to trust the God of love, 
Good Daniel's God on high above. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 71 



October 15, 1911. Thoughts on the Sunday School Les- 
son. Ezra 1:11. 

Common Meter. 

'Twas Jeremiah first perceived 

That exile sure must be. 
He also was the first to mark 

Its ending as we see. 

Eetaineth not His anger He, 

The God on high above; 
His word to Cyrus, king doth come. 

Release the ones I love. 

Our hearts now burn with joy to think 

Of Israel 's return ; 
But while away for sev 'nty years, 

For homeland they would yearn. 

Now nevermore did Jews bow down 

To idols, wood and stone. 
Their stay in exile did them good. 

More Godly had they grown. 

The vessels of the house of God, 

So safely had been kept. 
Is Jesus keeping us now safe? 

Have we for our sins wept? 



72 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



October 29, 1911. Thoughts on the Sunday School Les- 
son. Psalms 85:1-13. 

Iambic Heptameter Verse. 

Common Meter. 

The Lord hath brought us back again, 

To land of Can'ian fair; 
But while in distant land away, 

We longed for homeland there. 

Now grant us thy salvation. Lord, 

Thy mercy show us now. 
Let us not turn again to sin. 

But 'fore Thee humbly bow. 

The Lord hath done great things for us, 

Whereof we are so glad. 
Let's love and serve Him all our days, 

Rejoicing, and not sad. 

Wilt Thou revive us once again, 

! Lord, our God on high ? 
We need Thy presence ev'ry hour, 

! be Thou ever nigh. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 73 



November 5, 1911. Esther 4:10 to 5:3. Thoughts on the 
Sunday School Lesson. 

Iambic Heptameter Verse. 

Common Meter. 

"We must not think that all the Jews 

Went back to Holy Land. 
Those making money did refuse 

To join that happy band. 

Queen Esther was not born in land 

Of Canaan far away; 
Nor Mordecai, who took his stand, 

In land of birth to stay. 

Now Haman asked the king to make 

Decree to kill Jews, all. 
Yes, he would righteousness forsake, 

And kill them great and small. 

Queen Esther knew that death was sure. 

If king she did not see ; 
So that sweet maid, so good and pure, 

"Went with her humble plea. 

Delay not, come to Jesus now. 

He is our loving friend. 
Yes come, before Him humbly bow, 

His spirit will descend. 

"We can but perish if we go, 

"We should resolve to try ; 
For if we stay away, we know, 

"We must forever die. 



74 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



November 19, 1911. Ezra 8:21-32. Thoughts on the 
Sunday School Lesson. 

Iambic Heptameter Verse. 

Common Meter. 

The time had come for more to go 

To Canaan's happy land; 
So Ezra was the chosen one, 

To lead that happy band. 

A careful student, Ezra was, 

Of Moses' law of old; 
And God had filled his heart with zeal ; 

In teaching, he was bold. 

The hand of God, upon them is. 
For good, that seek His name. 

Now Ezra trusted in the Lord; 
A fast he did proclaim. 

He was ashamed to ask the king, 
A host to guard him through ; 

For if they fasted, prayed aright. 
The Lord would help, he knew. 

Let's thank our God, and courage take, 

And humbly 'fore Him bow. 
Let's make religion chief concern, 

And follow Jesus now. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 75 



December 17, 1911. Thoughts on the Sunday School 
h. 8:1-12. 

Ezra's Old Time Sunday School. 

Iambic Heptameter Verse. 

Common Meter. 

We have an old time Sunday School, 

By Ezra taught, today; 
And many people gathered there. 

To hear what he might say. 

His pupils, men and women were, 

As well as children too ; 
All that were old enough to learn. 

Were gathered, not a few. 

Now Ezra read from morn till noon, 

The law and gospel, free. 
The people were attentive then, 

As we today should be. 

Now Ezra's Sunday School did last 
From morn till noon, or more ; 

Today our session lasts one hour, 
And some would go before. 



76 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



December 31, 1911. Review Lesson for Last Quarter of 
1911. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Long Meter. 

Five hundred five and ninety years, 
Before the time when Christ appears, 
Our quarter's lessons do begin, 
With prophet's warning them of sin. 

The builders laid foundation stone, 
Where they might worship God alone. 
Delay not, come to Jesus now; 
Yes come, before Him humbly bow. 

Wilt Thou revive us? give us power, 
We need Thy presence ev'ry hour. 
From seventh lesson let us learn. 
Strong drink and reveling to spurn. 

Defeat, we never should accept ; 
Because God's promise will be kept. 
He will be with us to the end, 
If only on Him we depend. 

Now Ezra's Sunday School did last. 
From morn till noon, perhaps not past. 
Our sessions, one hour last, today ; 
Till close, some find it hard to stay. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 77 



Respectfully dedicated to Mrs. Mabel Mason, who re- 
cently lost her sister, Mrs. Retta Vincent, giving some of 
her last words. 

Long Meter. 

''I hear sweet music in the sky. 
Be happy, sister, do not cry. 
0, brother dear, now do prepare 
To meet me in that world so fair." 

She beckons you from over there 
To meet her in that world so fair. 
Beyond the pearly gates above, 
In happy home, where God is love. 

Your sister dwells in heaven above, 
Where all is joy, where all is love; 
And now you have just one more tie 
To draw you to your home on high. 

Sweet sister was to you so dear; 
You never more shall greet her here ; 
But when at last you're called to die, 
You'll meet her in sweet by and by. 



78 RELIGIOUS POEMS, 



Written while going from Kirliwood, Mo., to place of 
business in St. Louis, on Tuesday, February 27, 1912; with 
but little change thereafter. 

Read before Rev. Burtt Neville Timbie and wife, and the 
Wetzel Memorial Baptist Sunday School of Kirkwood, Mo., 
March 17, 1912. 

Long Meter. 

Dear Brother, Sister Timbie, too, 
'Tis soon your faces we'll not view; 
For far away in Eastern land. 
The Lord has ealled yon there to stand. 

With tears in eyes, we sorely grieve. 
To see this honored couple leave, 
This happy band, in Kirkwood, fair, 
To dwell in city, over there. 

And Oh ! how much our hearts do grieve, 
To think, you soon will take your leave, 
To think, that you must say good-bye, 
And break this tender, loving tie. 

But though you may be far away. 
You'll ever in our mem'ries stay. 
We '11 pray the Lord to be with you, 
While preaching there to not a few. 

Pray that the Lord may give me grace. 
That I may better fill my place ; 
That I may yet be able to 
Produce a poem, good and true. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



Pray that in ages far ahead, 
When my work's done, and I am dead, 
My feeble songs, may then be sung, 
In praise to God, by mortal tongue. 

Dear Brother Timbie, we rejoice 
That many more will hear your voice ; 
That prospect is that there you may 
Win many from the erring way. 

Near Fanny Crosby you will be, 
That one we 'd love so much to see. 
Tell her how much her songs we love. 
And that we '11 sure meet her above. 

And when, at last, you bid farewell. 
To those on earth, with whom you dwell, 
May Jesus welcome you above. 
To greet the dear ones there, you love. 

To you we now must bid farewell; 
May happiness forever dwell, 
With you and yours while here below. 
And where the peaceful waters flow. 



79 



80 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



February, 1913. To Rev. Thomas Thornton Johnson, of 
Noix Creek, my beloved first Superintendent of Sunday 
School, who passed away some years ago. 

Long Meter. 

Dear Brother Jolmson, of Noix Creek, 
I fancy now I hear you speak, 
And tell how Jesus came to die, 
That we might have a home on high. 

Your school was large, we loved to go, 
And help you battle 'gainst the foe. 
We came from far, we came from near, 
And with you early did appear. 

Now Ezra's Sunday School did last 
From morn till noon, perhaps not past ; 
But yours from morn till late in day, 
With children there you loved to stay. 

We memorized much scripture there; 
Our hearts and minds did thus prepare 
To meet life's battles as we go, 
And be successful 'gainst the foe. 

We went through snow, we went through rain, 
And there a blessing did obtain. 
Thank God for training we got there ; 
In hardships now we'll ne'er despair. 

We met you there, some years before ; 
With us the battle 's almost o 'er. 
When we will meet you over there, 
In heavenly home, so bright and fair. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 81 



To Prof. R. P. Rider, on the occasion of his leaving the 
Wetzel Memorial Baptist Church of Kirkwood, Mo. Read 
at the prayer meeting in the presence of Prof. Rider, Feb- 
ruary 26, 1913. 

Long Meter. 

Prof. Rider, brother dear, 
'Tis soon with us you'll not appear; 
For far away God bids you go, 
Still battling for the Lord, we know. 

With tears in eyes, we sorely grieve 
To see this honored deacon leave 
This happy band, in Kirkwood fair. 
To dwell in city over there. 

And ! how much our hearts do grieve. 
To think you soon will take your leave. 
To think that you must say good-bye, 
And break this tender, loving tie. 

But though you may be far away, 
You'll ever in our mem'ries stay. 
We know the Lord will give you grace. 
And that you'll nobly fill your place. 

So when at last you bid farewell 
To those on earth, with whom you dwell. 
You'll have a home, yes, over there. 
With all the loved ones, bright and fair. 

To you we now must bid farewell. 
May happiness forever dwell 
With you and yours while here below, 
And where the peaceful waters flow. 



82 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



October, 1912. 
Mrs. Belle Goodman: — 

Dear Niece: I thought perhaps you might enjoy a few 
lines from me, since I did not get to see you while I was 
in Pike. 

Long Meter. 

Dear Niece, since you I did not see, 
I send this message now to thee. 
I trust that we again will meet. 
That we may each the other greet. 

Together we four brothers met ; 
That happy time we'll ne'er forget. 
The old time songs we there did sing, 
And to our hearts, it joy did bring. 

Our hearts were then so full of love. 
We felt like praising God above. 
The preacher there with us did pray 
That we on earth might longer stay. 

While at your home you had to stay, . 
We thought of you while far away. 
We wished that you were with us too, 
As we were gathered, not a few. 

! happy thought, in heaven we '11 meet, 
And there the other kindly greet; 
Then ne'er will break this tender tie, 
In happy home beyond the sky. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 83 



November 12, 1914. Respectfully Dedicated to the Par- 
ents and Relatives of Edward Robert Ellegood, who was 
recently killed by an automobile. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Long Meter. 

Our Friends, so dear, we sympathize, 
Your loss of boy was great surprise. 
He beckons you from over there, 
To meet him in that world so fair. 

Let hearts be light and full of joy, 
For soon you know you'll meet your boy, 
Beyond the pearly gates above, 
In happy home, where God is love. 

This boy now dwells in heaven above, 
Where all is joy, where all is love ; 
And now you have just one more tie 
To draw you to your home on high. 

Sweet little boy, to you was dear, 
You never more shall greet him here, 
But when at last you pass away 
You'll live with him in endless day. 



84 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



To the Young Lady Clerks in the Home Office of the 
Missouri Life and Accident Insurance Co., upon the Occa- 
sion of the Officers and Agents Presenting them a Christ- 
mas Gift, December 26, 1914. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

This little gift we give to you, 
Which shows appreciation true, 
Of you, a cheerful little band. 
The best in all this happy land. 

From us to you, it conies so free, 
Our best regards in this you see. 
While cheerful as a bird of song, 
You've helped Missouri Life along. 

When you, a mate for life, would find, 
We hope that you will be inclined 
To come and look all o'er our room. 
For here you sure can find a groom. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 85 



Respectfully dedicated to our beloved friend, Mr. William 
S. Burgess, Assistant Superintendent of the Missouri Life 
and Accident Insurance Co., whose little son was killed by 
an automobile, July 2, 1912. 

We sympathize, dear Brother "Will, 
This boy with love, your heart did fill. 
He beckons you from over there, 
To meet him in that world so fair. 

Your heart is light, and full of joy, 
For soon you know you'll meet your boy, 
Beyond the pearly gates above, 
In happy home, where God is love. 

This boy now dwells in heaven above, 
With mother dear, where all is love ; 
And now you have just one more tie 
To draw you to your home on high. 

Sweet little boy, to us was dear. 
We never more shall greet him here ; 
But when these fleeting days are past, 
May we all meet in heaven, at last. 



86 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



Written for the Laclede Mission during its Session on 
May 31, 1914. 

Respectfully Dedicated to Grandpa, Mr. Orr. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

As we before Thee humbly bow, 
Jehovah, bless the Mission now. 
Be Thou their guide this very day. 
As in Thy presence now they stay. 

Give Thou the blessing which they need, 
As in Thy presence they do plead. 
The heart of Grandpa comfort now. 
As they before Thee humbly bow. 

"We see in Grandpa's humble plea, 
The semblance to friend Georgie Peay. 
The Mem'ry of their humble way. 
Comes to my mind and that to stay. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 87 



Respectfully dedicated to my Many Friends who gave 
me a Linen Shower, December 10, 1914. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

My sweet companions, one and all, 
For presents large and presents small, 
It sure is not within my power 
To thank you 'nough for linen shower. 

Expressions of your love I see 
In all these gifts which came so free. 
Be siu'e I love you more and more, 
Than ever I have loved before. 

The single state I soon will leave ; 
But how much my heart doth grieve 
To think that when I stand with groom, 
For all my friends, I have not room. 

Your affectionate friend, 

Flossie Hogue. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



Composed while going to St. Louis, from Kirkwood, on 
the morning of January 20, 1913, and sent to Mr. and Mrs. 
John S. Martin the same day. 

Thoughts on their Golden Wedding Anniversary. 

Dear Brother John and Sister Mag, 
Let echo ring from mountain crag, 
The happy news we do relate, 
Of what you now do celebrate. 

Just fifty years ago today, 

You said, "With mamma we'll not stay. 

Together we will happy be, 

As we sail o 'er life 's tranquil sea. ' ' 

"We're glad that we can truly say, 
In peace and harmony you stay. 
Your way has been so bright and clear, 
You still hold Qach the other dear. 

How much I wish that I could be. 
Where I could both your faces see, 
And be with all who there appear, 
The loved ones whom I hold so dear. 

With us, our course is nearly run ; 
Then may we say, ' ' The vie 'try 's won. ' ' 
Beyond this vale of tears we'll meet, 
In heav'n we'll each the other greet. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 89 



July 8, 1914. Respectfuflly dedicated to a Young Man 
Who Lost His Sweetheart. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Long Meter. 

Sweet little girl, so mild and meek, 
Oh ! why tonight would you not speak ? 
Do tell nie what has crossed your mind, 
That to me you are thus inclined. 

I held my hand to kindly greet; 
I was so happy you to meet. 
But you were not disposed to speak; 
Another one, I must now seek. 

As I lie tossing on my bed, 
I almost wish myself now dead, 
To think you have forsaken me. 
And friendly to me will not be. 

May all your paths be strewn with flowers, 
As here you while away the hours; 
And though perhaps you did not sin, 
I '11 think some day, what might have been. 



90 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



Dedicated to Superintendent J. K. Martyne, who in- 
spected my debit in the Missouri Life and Accident Insur- 
ance Co., on the weeli of May 19, 1913. Written going from 
Kirkwood to St. Louis on the morning of May 24, 1913. 

Long Meter. 

The week of nineteenth day of May, 
'Twas our boy Jake with me did stay 
From early morn till near sunset 
He kept me in the field, you bet. 

The people strained their necks to see 
The clown from circus, now set free. 
He cracked his jokes, their sides did shake ; 
The babies, some with fear did quake. 

With them sometimes he played so rough, 
The babies thought he sure was tough ; 
But when he called them to his side , 
From him no longer would they hide. 

Dear Mamma Blackburn, he did write. 
He held her to the subject tight, 
Till all the questions had been asked. 
The vie 'try won, a finished task. 

How strange, Kentucky 'd been her home. 
Where Jake, in childhood, there did roam. 
"Now, Mr. Martin, you get out," 
That good old lady then did shout. 

''I've found my man, Kentucky boy, 
And nothing shall my peace annoy. ' ' 
She was so happy there that day, 
'Twill ever in my mem'ry stay. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 91 



February 14, 1914. Respectfully dedicated to Mr. J. K. 
Martyne, who recently changed his appearance. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Long Meter. 

When I came in the other day, 
I saw a strange sight, right away. 
Our jolly boy, whom we call Jake, 
Did make our sides just fairly shake. 

His hair was parted on the side, 
And that was not the old divide. 
For in the center was the way 
He parted it from day to day. 

Now when he visits widow, gay. 
We wonder if she'll let him stay. 
Or say, "Get out, you are a fake. 
Go back and send my lovely Jake." 



92 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



Respectfully dedicated to Miss Ella Sheehy, the young 
lady who re-wrote my life register on August 11 and 12, 
1913. 

Last night I checked my book all through. 
I checked with one prepared by you, 
And in its pages there I found, 
Perfection only to abound. 

For not a name was missing there, 
In all that book, you did prepare. 
And not a name too much you wrote 
In all that book, I sure did note. 

My dear young man, if you would find 
A girl just suited to your mind, 
Select one faultless in her work. 
Who never does her duty shirk. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 93 



December 26, 1913. 

Iambic Tetrameter Verse. 

Long Meter. 

Miss Flossie Hogue, my niece so dear, 
Your Christmas greetings now are here. 
This morning, I received your card. 
Then nothing could my joy retard. 

Enraptured was my mind in flight, 
A poem then I thought I'd write, 
Expressive of my joy today, 
Upon receipt of what you say. 

The card you sent of early dawn, 
Reminds us of first Christmas morn, 
When Jesus in the manger lay, 
And all about that happy day. 

Dear niece, how much I'd love to be, 
"Where all your faces I could see, 
And hear sweet music as you play 
Upon piano day by day. 

I wish that you could realize 
As time, away so swiftly flies. 
How proud I am that I can say 
You are my niece of lovely way. 



94 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



Respectfully dedicated to Mr. J. C. Bruce, upon the oc- 
casion of his retiring from the Missouri Life and Accident 
Insurance Co., August 19, 1911. 

Written while on car from St. Louis to Kirkwood, August 
16, 1911. 

Long Meter. 

Now, Mr. Bruce, from Georgia land, 
Is 'bout to leave our liappy band ; 
Yes, far away to roam about, 
In many states, go in and out. 

We'll think of his congenial way. 
As he can travel where he may. 
"We'll wish him happiness and gelt, 
And that his influ'nee may be felt. 

In sunny land of Georgia state, 
Where watermelons did await, 
'Mid cotton, peaches, peanuts too. 
Is where, his mamma, first he knew. 

With tears in eyes, we say farewell ; 
May happiness forever dwell 
With him and his while here below, 
And where the peaceful waters flow, 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 95 



Respectfully dedicated to Mr. Elmer Ward, who lost his 
hat while passing along the street, November, 1913. 

As he was passing down the street, 
A swiftly moving car, did meet. 
A sudden gust of wind then blew, 
And under car, his hat, it threw. 

The hat was spoiled, the agent sighed, 
And wondered how his pate he'd hide. 
He went in search of nearest store, 
Where hats were sold. He entered door. 

The price of hats then doubled quick, 
And agent felt he must throw brick, 
And aim it at the merchant's head. 
To try to knock him cold and dead. 

The merchant said, "It is no sin 
To double up when such come in." 
The agent picks a cap at last, 
Then out he goes and travels fast. 

My dear young man, take my advice, 
And to your hat some strings do splice, 
And under chin, tie good and fast. 
Then you can brave the wintry blast. 



96 EELIGIOUS POEMS. 

Written at the request of Miss Vandam, who led the 
prayer meeting, in Kirkwood, Mo., August 23, 1911. 100th 
Psalm. 

Long Meter. 

I think of childhood's happy days, 
I think of many merry plays, 
And how I'd rather stay away. 
Than go to church to sing and pray. 

I think of childhood days of old, 
I think of mother's gentle scold; 
For then I'd rather play than go 
To church where I might better grow. 

I think of golden childhood past, 
How mother's tears would come so fast. 
Because I did not heed and love 
Her heavenly Father, up above. 

She lived to see her children, all, 
Upon his name, with gladness call. 
It was our great delight to go. 
Where once our mother urged us so. 

The Christian will to service go; 
'Tis rest to him, while here below. 
He goes, rejoicing, as he may. 
And wonders, who can stay away. 

Oh ! make a joyful noise, ye lands. 
Unto the Lord, fulfill demands. 
With gladness serve the Lord above, 
The God of light, the God of love. 

'Tis He that made us, and not we ; 
We are His people, yes, so free 
To love and serve Him with delight, 
So let us ever do the right. 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 97 

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS 

Exodus 20:3-17. 

1. Thou Shalt have no other gods before me. 

2. Thou Shalt not make unto thee any graven image, 
or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or 
that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under 
the earth: thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor 
serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, 
visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto 
the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and 
showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and 
keep my commandments. 

3. Thou Shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God 
in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that 
taketh his name in vain. 

4. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six 
days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work: but the seventh 
day is the Sabbath of the LORD thy God; in it thou shalt 
not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy 
manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy 
stranger that is within thy gates: for in six days the LORD 
made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, 
and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed 
the Sabbath day, and hallowed it. 

5. Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may 
be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth 
thee. 

6. Thou shalt not kill. 

7. Thou shalt not commit adultery. 

8. Thou shalt not steal. 

9. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neigh- 
bor. 

10. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou shalt 
not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his 
maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor anything that is 
thy neighbor's. 



THE LORD'S PRAYER, 

Matt. 6:9-13. 

Our Father which art in heaven. Hallowed by thy name. 
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in 
heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us 
our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into 
temptation, but deliver us from evil: for thine is the 
kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. 



98 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 



INDEX TO RELIGIOUS AND SENTIMENTAL POEMS. 

Page 

A certain man two sons he had 28 

After resurrection day 61 

A marriage feast was made by king 44 

A multitude was gathered there 18 

And being asked by Pharisee 33 

And as He spake, a Pharisee 17 

A parable now Jesus speaks 34 

As grain of mustard seed in ground 22 

As he was passing down the street 95 

As Jesus went forth in the way 35 

As they go forth from Jericho 39 

As we before Thee humbly bow 86 

Dear Brother John and Sister Mag 88 

Dear Brother Johnson, of Noix Creek 80 

Dear Brother, Sister Timbie too 78 

Dear Niece, since you I did not see 82 

Disciples all left Jesus then 54 

Disciples heard the Master pray 15 

Disciples, Jesus now doth tell 29 

Disciples, Jesus taught that day 37 

Eleven disciples went to see 60 

Eternal life we cannot buy 13 

Ev'ry one depart from me 9 

Five hundred five and ninety years 76 

God honors those who trust, obey 67 

God promised that with them He'd go 10 

Go little poems, far and near, Dedication 5 

He took the loaf, He blessed, He broke 36 

Householder is a certain man 43 

I hear sweet music in the sky 77 

In April, on the nineteenth day 8 

Interpretation of a dream 69 

Isaiah prophet, great of old 63 

I think of childhood's happy days 96 

Jerusalem is now near by 40 

Jerusalem they're nearing now 41 

Josiah reigned in early youth 65 



RELIGIOUS POEMS. 99 

Page 

Last night I checked my book all through 92 

Let loins about thee girded be 20 

Love the Lord with all thine heart 46 

Manasseh lived so long in sin 64 

Mary, also Martha too 42 

Miss Flossie Hogue, my niece so dear 93 

My sweet companions, one and all 87 

Now Daniel lived, yes, all the while 68 

Now Mr. Bruce, from Georgia land 94 

One who by Master should be led 19 

On first day of unleaven bread 51 

Our friends, so dear, we sympathize 83 

Pilate called both great and small 57 

Prof. Rider, Brother dear 81 

Samaria and Galilee 32 

Spices the two Marys brought 59 

Sweet little girl, so mild and meek 89 

The chief priests and the scribes that day 50 

The heavenly kingdom then shall be 47 

The Lord appointed seventy more 12 

The Lord hath brought us back again 72 

The Lord's Prayer 97 

The Lord was famous at that time 26 

Then came they to Gethsemane 52 

Then Jesus, in their midst sets child 23 

Then Jesus on the Sabbath day 21 

Then Jesus to disciples said 5S 

Then Jesus wished that no one know 11 

Then Judas bargains to betray 53 

The Pharisees consult just how 45 

The publicans and sinners too 27 

The Savior at that time did say 31 

The Ten Commandments 97 

The time had come for more to go 74 

The two disciples there did talk 25 

The week of nineteenth day of May 90 

This little gift we give to you 84 

'Tis now they are near Jericho 38 

To Golgotha now they bring 58 



100 RELIGIOUS POEMS. 

Page 

To villages and cities too 14 

'Twas Jeremiah first perceived 71 

Unto the poor, the hungry dear 30 

We are going, we are going 7 

We have an old time Sunday School 75 

We must not think that all the Jews 73 

We sympathize, dear Brother Will 85 

Whatsoever man doth sow 55 

When bidden to a wedding feast 24 

When Daniel knew the king had signed 70 

When I came in the other day 91 

When Jesus comes, yes in the cloud 48 

When the demon had gone out 16 

Where'er the gospel shall be preached 62 

Whoever 'mong you great would be 49 

With tears in eyes, we sorely grieve 66 



